WNBA Team Hires New Head Coach After 2024 Playoff Appearance

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Spencer Ostrow | Last updated Nov 13, 2024 10:58 AM ET

The Atlanta Dream decided to part ways with head coach Tanisha Wright on Oct. 2 after three seasons. Despite making the 2024 WNBA playoffs, the Dream finished the season with a 15-25 record and were eliminated in the first round by the New York Liberty, who went on to win the title.

Atlanta's general manager and executive vice president, Dan Padover, had his sights set on becoming "a top team in the WNBA."

On Wednesday, the Dream announced they’d found the right head coach to make that a reality: Karl Smesko.

"Karl (Smesko) is a proven leader with a history of developing his players and creating a winning culture,” Padover said. “His fast-paced, innovative style of play will be attractive to our players and fans alike. We are excited to have Karl bring his incredible basketball IQ to the Dream."

WE HAVE OUR COACH! The Dream has hired Karl Smesko as our new Head Coach.

Learn More: https://t.co/SK8waTOvwc pic.twitter.com/et8bV0NsMt
— Atlanta Dream (@AtlantaDream) November 13, 2024

Smesko is "humbled and honored" to have the opportunity to coach the Dream.

"I am humbled and honored to be the head coach of the Atlanta Dream,” Smesko said. "I’m thankful to the leadership of the Atlanta Dream for their faith in me to lead this organization into the future, and can’t wait to get started."

Smesko, 54, was hired after a 23-year run at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he led the Eagles to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances and captured 14 regular-season titles. He held the third-highest winning percentage among active NCAA Division I coaches at .843, with 672 career wins.

Smesko is also "grateful" for his time spent coaching in Fort Myers.

“I am grateful for a remarkable 23 years at FGCU and will be forever indebted to the amazing women who have played for me, the incredible professionals who have coached with me, and the passionate fanbase who supported us along the way," he added.

Smesko now takes over a team led by Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray and Tina Charles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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